The term you're looking for is 'elevation' or 'elevation view'. In architectural drawings and plans, an elevation is a two-dimensional representation of the three-dimensional exterior of a building. It shows the side view of a building as if it were cut vertically, providing essential details about its design and appearance.
Elevations are crucial in architecture and construction as they help architects, engineers, and builders visualize and plan a structure's external features, measurements, and materials. They also serve as a blueprint for construction, ensuring that the final building matches the design intent.
Understanding Elevation in Architecture
Elevations provide a detailed breakdown of a building's exterior, including its shape, size, and the arrangement of its parts. They show wall heights, door and window placements, roof lines, and other architectural elements.
Elevations are typically drawn to scale, with ratios such as 1:100 or 1:50 commonly used. This means that one unit on the drawing (like a centimeter) represents a larger size in real life (like a meter).
Elevation Components
The main components of an elevation are the building's walls, floors, and roof. Other elements such as windows, doors, and architectural features like columns, bay windows, or porches are also included and accurately positioned.
Measured from the ground level, elevations show precise wall heights, contributing to a building's overall proportion. They may also include the building's surroundings, such as adjacent properties, streets, or landscaped areas, to show the structure's relationship to its environment.
Elevation Types
Elevations can be further classified into different types based on their placement relative to the building. The most common types are:
- Front Elevation: shows the main or most prominent side of the building, usually facing the street or a public area.
- Rear Elevation: displays the opposite side, typically not visible to the public.
- Left and Right Elevations: provide views from either side of the building. These are essential for understanding a structure's depth and spatial relationships.
Some buildings, especially complex ones, may require additional elevations to fully describe their design, such as corner elevations or roof elevations (showing detailed views of the roof structure).
Elevations in Different Design Phases
Elevations play a significant role throughout the architectural design process, from conceptualization to construction. In the early design stages, they help architects explore different design options and assess their visual impact.
A well-documented set of elevations ensures that the final construction process stays faithful to the original design. Any changes or modifications can be accurately tracked and implemented, maintaining the integrity of the architectural vision.
Elevations in Building Codes and Regulations
Local building codes often require specific elevation details, including wall heights, materials, and certain design elements. Complying with these codes ensures that buildings meet safety standards, neighborhoodcharacteristics, and aesthetic guidelines.
For example, zoning ordinances may dictate maximum or minimum building heights, setbacks, or the number of stories allowed. Elevations help ensure that a building adheres to these regulations while still realizing the architect's vision.
Elevations in Marketing and Communication
Elevations can also play a crucial role in the marketing and communication of buildings. Architects and developers may use high-quality renderings or photographs of elevations to showcase a structure's unique features and attract potential buyers or tenants.
Elevations can also help municipalities and planning departments communicate changes, zoning requirements, or development plans to the public, fostering transparency and engagement in the approval process.
In essence, understanding what an elevation is and its role in architecture is key to navigating the design, construction, and communication processes. By appreciating the side view of a building, we gain valuable insights into its design, functionality, and overall aesthetic impact.